European Parliament Approves Widely Opposed Migration Reform

JAKARTA - The European Parliament (EU) approved the Migration and Asylum Pact, which was previously widely opposed.

"European parliament today adopted ten legislative texts to reform Europe's migration and asylum policies as agreed with EU member states," parliament said in a statement.

According to the statement, approved reforms promised that asylum applications would be examined more quickly, including at the EU border, and more effective repatriation.

The agreement also gives EU member countries the option to take responsibility for asylum applicants, make financial contributions, or provide operational support.

In addition, the reform will allow for a better response during the crisis situation, a new voluntary scheme for the re-residential of refugees from third countries, as well as increased identification of illegal migrants as they arrive at the borders of EU countries.

"The regulation is expected to take effect within two years," the statement read.

EU Commission Chairman Ursula von der Leyen said irregular migration is a common problem that requires joint effort and reform is the result.

He made this statement during a press conference with the Chairman of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. Belgium is currently the head of the European Union's rotation.

The legislation will make a "real difference for all Europeans," said von der Leyen.

He added that the law would make European borders safer, establish more efficient procedures for asylum and repatriation, and increase solidarity with borders outside EU member countries.

"With this pact, we have the legal framework we need. This is the first stage. The second stage is our operational support for member countries," he added.